The simple steps YOU need to take to avoid being hacked in an online scam

MAKE sure you are protected against the latest online attacks by following these simple steps.

Ensure you're protected against online attacks by following these steps

They should use official payment services and not pay via direct bank transfer off-site.

We have hundreds of people working 24/7 to stop fraud

Les Matheson

Businesses can also be victims of scams. NatWest said “invoice fraud” can cause big losses.

This happens when a business receives an invoice that appears to be from a trusted trading partner but is actually fake.

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The bank said nearly 7,000 customers have become victims of scams since the start of 2016

The fraudster typically says that payment arrangements have changed and that the customer should pay the outstanding balance to the new account, which is operated by the fraudster.

Each business targeted loses, on average, £30,000 to this type of fraud.

Les Matheson, NatWest chief executive of personal and business banking, said: “We have hundreds of people working 24/7 to stop fraud, but it’s very important that, as individuals and businesses, we know how to protect ourselves.”

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Charities will benefit from Co-op's £9million scheme

Charities share millions in Co-op scheme

Thousands of grassroots charities are sharing millions of pounds from a fund set up by retail giant the Co-op.

About 4,000 charities, ranging from Scout groups, walking clubs and brass bands to those providing a social service such as helping with bereavement, will benefit from the £9million scheme.

Every time one of the Co-op’s 4.3 million members buys an own-brand product or service, they receive a 5 per cent reward, with a further 1 per cent going to charities.